Hypoallergenic dogs: the list

We hear the phrases “hypoallergenic dogs” and “dogs that don’t shed” a lot. But what do they really mean? What is a hypoallergenic dog?

First of all, the dictionary definition of hypoallergenic (or hypoallergenic) is “have a decreased tendency to cause an allergic reaction“.

Note that this does NOT mean that something hypoallergenic will NOT cause an allergic reaction.

The scientific fact of the matter is that:

1. No dog is totally hypoallergenic. 2. No dog is totally hypoallergenic.

Incredibly, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America estimates that up to 10 million Americans have some type of allergy. It’s no wonder so many people are looking for a pet that won’t make them sneeze or gasp all day.

Well, there is good news for dog lovers … First of all, cats are much more likely to cause allergies than dogs! Second, although nothing is guaranteed, an allergic person is less likely to have a reaction with a hypoallergenic breed of dog. They may not have any reaction at all.

We can honestly say that this is true in our family. We chose Max, a Miniature Schnauzer, because of allergies and now, four years later, we can honestly say that we have practically no allergic reaction to Max. Maybe an occasional sneeze when you need a bath or a trip to the salon to get a trim, but that’s it.

Another plus is that we didn’t find any dog ​​hair in the house either, which is great. When friends visit their dogs, namely Ruby the Cairn Terrier and worse, Charlie the Labrador Retriever (lovely dog, but masses of fur he’s not particularly attached to …), I find dog hairs. in the house for weeks afterwards!

By the way, a dog is hypoallergenic BECAUSE it does not shed.

Most people think that people with allergies to pets are allergic to animal hair, but that is not the case. In reality, they are allergic to proteins, or allergens. These are secreted by the sebaceous glands of the animal and then are shed with dander or dead skin cells. (These proteins are also found in dog saliva and urine.)

All dogs, even the so-called “hairless” breeds, have dander, saliva, and urine. Hairless dog breeds, such as all three types of Schnauzers, have a double coat. The outer layer is hard and wiry, the inner layer softer and closer to the skin.

This type of fur sheds only if the dog is left uncared for for several months. Hypoallergenic dogs practically do not shed. (You may find the occasional dog hair around the house.) Their coats do not trap dander like thick-haired dogs do.

Hairless puppies are a popular choice for people with allergies. If you are considering getting one, try spending time alone with the puppy at the breeder to determine what reaction, if any, he has. Allergic symptoms don’t always happen right away; sometimes, there may be a delay of a couple of days. They can also vary from breed to breed, or even dog to dog within the same breed.

Of course, there is no guarantee of allergies. But one thing you CAN be sure of is that your chances of having an allergic reaction to a dog are much lower if you choose a non-shedding, hypoallergenic breed.

There are a surprising number of hypoallergenic dog breeds. To find out what they are, follow this link for the full list of hypoallergenic dog breeds.

Happy hunting!